Adderall.
It’s a word that will either make you cringeor
make you smile, depending on who you ask.The
drug’s intended to be used as a prescription medicationto
treat ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)and
narcolepsy. Now, it’s become increasingly popularfor
its off-label use as a study aid and a quick fix for motivation
problems.Students
and Wall Street executives in search of a real-world
limitless pill frequently turn to Adderall as a
possiblesolution. The
drug’s widespread misuse brought about a slew of
media coverage and college campus horror stories.
Adderall-induced addiction,
depression,
and derailed lives are just the beginning.With
a prescription “smart drug” epidemic looming,renewed
awareness, and a healthy fear of Adderall have come to
light.

Natural
Substitutes for Adderall

ADHD
can be challenging to manage. You may experienceimpulsivity
issues, inattentiveness, difficulty learning and
socializing, and a general sense of inefficiency. These
complications
can lead to productivity problems that are
extremely difficult to overcome.
Fortunately, there are several natural over the counter (OTC)
Adderall
alternatives to control your symptoms.
Herbal
Adderall substitutes for treating ADHD are healthy andeffective
for long-term use. They are entirely legal and will safelyreduce
your symptoms. Natural remedies for ADHD are
especially
significant for parents. Nobody wants to expose their children to
the
harsh side effects of amphetamine-based stimulants. With
that said,
non-prescription alternatives are also highly recommended for
adults
looking to boost focus and
concentration. Before we dive into our list
of natural supplements for ADHD, let’s take a closer look at the
truth
behind Adderall.

What Is Adderall and Why Is It Dangerous?

Adderall is the brand name for a potent Schedule II controlled
substance that shares a remarkable amount of similarities with
methamphetamine. Unfortunately, most Adderall users are
unaware of this frightening fact and never associate the two.
A common and dangerous misconception is that Adderall is
safe
since
it’s an FDA approved medication, legally prescribed
to
children by licensed physicians. Just like candy, right?
Hardly.
When
taken as suggested by a doctor, Adderall, and similar
drugslike
Vyvanse and Ritalin can help reduce ADHD symptoms.But
these drugs still have substantial health risks.
Adderall itself
contains both amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. This attribute
makes it chemically addictive and potentially detrimental to your
CNS (Central Nervous System) with long-term use.

Adderall works by stimulating
several neurotransmitters in your brain to unnaturally high
levels. The neurotransmitters in question include
dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline), serotonin, and
norepinephrine. The sudden rush of “feel good” chemicals can
provide alertness and enhanced
energy and motivation for an entire day. Sounds good on
paper, but the constant flood of “reward” signals can leave you
wanting more. Tolerance development ensues.

The need to take more of the
drug to feel the same effects can quickly lead to addiction and
dependency. Excessive Adderall consumption can deteriorate
your central nervous system causing permanent and irreversible
damage.

Using
natural alternatives to Adderall can help you avoid these adverse
side effects. When it comes to your health or that of your
children, long-term safety should be your priority. Treating ADHD
with legal over the counter substitutes is the best decision you
can make for yourself and your children.

Those looking for increased
lifespan and enhanced cognitive function often turn to Bacopa
Monnieri (water hyssop) for help.

As
a traditionally used medicinal herb for centuries, Bacopa has
proven itself as an excellent natural substitute for
Adderall.

Like
its prescription counterparts, Bacopa Monnieri interacts with
serotonergic and dopaminergic systems in the body.

The
positive interaction on essential neurotransmitters enhances
alertness and energy levels in the individual.

Bacopa
primarily works by enhancing neuron communicationthrough
the growth and maintenance of nerve endings in the brain.For
this reason, Bacopa supplements reliably improve memoryformation
and mental cognition. Studies have demonstrated Bacopa’sability
to boost and
stabilize mood and improve attention spanin
its users. This nootropic is available as a
non-prescriptionhomeopathic
treatment for ADHD for over the counter purchase.

3. Caffeine

Most of us are no strangers to
caffeine, but few would link a cup of coffee to a reduction in
ADHD symptoms. Studies have shown that caffeine can
safely improve focus and concentration for its users, making it a
reliable natural Adderall alternative.

Caffeine
is considered a Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulant which can
boost the production of dopamine in the brain.

This
legal OTC supplement is also a vasoconstrictor. Therefore,
caffeine reduces blood flow to overactive regions of
the brain by shrinking blood vessels (like Adderall,
Vyvanse, and Ritalin). This effect allows for more predictable
and stable communication throughout the brain.

Not only will caffeine enhance energy and reduce fatigue, but
its stimulatory effect makes it an excellent supplement
forcuring
brain fog. Adults and children with ADHD should consume
caffeine
during the morning hours, only. An early dosing schedule will
help to eliminate sleeplessness or insomnia at night.
Excessive
caffeine consumption can be harmful to children and teens.
Do not go overboard with this Adderall substitute.

4. L-Theanine

Found primarily in green tea
leaves from Camellia sinensis plants, L-Theanine is a
non-essential amino acid with a variety of health

benefits.
This safe and natural Adderall alternative can reduce
stress and anxiety by boosting levels of GABA and
glycine in the brain.

GABA and glycine are inhibitory neurotransmitters that work to
offset overactive excitatory neurotransmitters. This effect
creates a state of relaxation and calmness within the user. By
helping the brain achieve equilibrium, L-Theanine
effectively reduces ADHD related symptoms.
Studies have supported the use of L-Theanine as one of the best
over the counter replacements for Adderall. In users diagnosed
with ADHD, there was a notable reduction in mild cognitive
impairment while supplementing L-Theanine. Selective
attention span also improved in another 16-week study. This
natural amino acid is also an excellent nootropic to stack with
caffeine.
It works by offsetting the crash and jitters associated with
caffeine,
while still providing mental and physical stimulation. Theanine’s
inhibitory and mild sedative effect also makes it an excellent
nighttime
sleep aid.

5. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea is a
well-known Scandinavian herb with stimulatory properties like
Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ritalin.

Fortunately,
this herbal nootropic comes without the adverse side effects of
amphetamine-based ADHD stimulants.

Rhodiola
Rosea has been utilized for centuries in traditional Chinese
medicine as a natural remedy for a variety of issues

related
to fatigue and cognitive impairment.

Several studies have demonstrated a link between Rhodiola Rosea
and enhancements in memory and mood stabilization through
serotonin and dopamine regulation. Improved energy levels,
sharper mental processing, and enhanced cognitive function
are also among the many health
benefits of Rhodiola Rosea. While this
brain supplement is safe, and legal for OTC purchase, there are
currently
few studies that use it for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder.
However, its effects on cognition suggest that it is an excellent
natural
substitute for Adderall.

6. Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine
benefits the brain by providing structural support to
cell membranes. This natural supplement is known as an essential
phospholipid in the human body, aiding in the formation and
recollection of memories. There is substantial convincing
documentation demonstrating the effects of Phosphatidylserine
(PS) on cognitive function. PS combats mood disorders, reduces
perceived feelings of anxiety and depression, and even offers
neuroprotection.

Not
only is this natural remedy excellent for overall brain health,
but it’s also a safe and effectiveover
the counter Adderall alternative. A double-blind 2-month
studyin
children with ADHD supplementing Phosphatidylserine showedsignificant
improvements in impulsivity control and auditory memory.Additional
research linked PS supplementation to enhancementsin
processing speed and accuracy in healthy adults. These
findingssuggest
that Phosphatidylserine is an excellent non-prescriptionalternative
for ADHD medications Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ritalin.

7. Omega-3 Fish Oil

Arguably the most popular
health supplement on the planet, Omega-3 fish oil is surprisingly
effective in treating ADHD naturally.

Fish
oil contains two primary fatty acids that benefit the mind and
body. These fatty acids are DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and
EPA

DHA
is more beneficial as a cognitive enhancer, used as a natural OTC
substitute for Adderall.

While
both types of fish oil provide numerous health benefitsin
adults and children, DHA-heavy supplements are moreeffective
for treating ADHD. Several studies have found that
fish oil containing more DHA led to improvements in working
memory, attention span, and a reduction in behavioral
problems related to ADHD (impulse control, hyperactivity, etc.).
Another study suggested the effects of Omega-3 fatty acids
were even more pronounced when stacked with
Phosphatidylserine (PS). If you’re looking for safe, legal, and
healthy
natural
remedies for ADHD, give fish oil a try.

8. Alpha GPC

One of the best Adderall
alternatives for over the counter purchase is the
highly bioavailable
choline supplement, Alpha GPC (Choline Alfoscerate). Recent
research suggests that children with ADHD have dramatically
reduced acetylcholine receptors in the brain. Alpha GPC works by
crossing the blood-brain barrier and promptly increasing levels
of usable acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is the most prominent
learning and memory neurotransmitter in the human body. For this
reason, Alpha GPC would be a safe and effective natural Adderall
substitute for improving focus and concentration in the
user.

The benefits of Alpha
GPC go well beyond the treatmentof
ADHD and cognitive enhancement. This nootropic isarguably
just as prevalent in the bodybuilding and fitnessworld.
Alpha GPC can enhance growth hormone productionand
fat oxidation in healthy young adults. Additionally,choline
supplements assist in neuroprotection and serveas
excellent natural medications for treating
neurodegenerativediseases.

9. Huperzine A

Huperzine A is an herbal
nootropic supplement renowned in Chinese medicine for improving
cognitive function in children and adults.

In
a similar fashion to Alpha GPC, Huperzine A
benefits the brain by enhancing levels of acetylcholine.
While Alpha GPC does so directly,

Huperzine
A increases acetylcholine levels in the brain, indirectly.

Huperzine
A works like this: Acetylcholinesterase is the chemical
responsible for breaking down acetylcholine in the
brain. Huperzine A is classified as an acetylcholinesterase
inhibitor.

This classification means that Huperzine A inhibits
acetylcholinesterase from
performing its duty of breakingdown
acetylcholine. Huperzine’s inhibitory properties allowmore
acetylcholine to build up in the brain, subsequentlyenhancing learning,
focus, and attention in the user. This herbalAdderall
alternative is legal, and safe to use for the treatmentof ADHD.
Additionally, Huperzine A has a synergistic
effect andis even
more potent for boosting cognitive function whenstacked
with Alpha GPC. Look for both ingredients together when
purchasingnatural
remedies for ADHD.

10. L-Tyrosine

L-Tyrosine is an amino acid used
to produce neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline and is
one of the best OTC Adderall substitutes. This natural nootropic
supplement is known for its ability to enhance mental cognition
during acute and uncontrollable stress. Studies have shown that
Tyrosine may also improve memory and reduce feelings of anxiety.
This mood-stabilizing benefit makes L-Tyrosine a potentially
effective homeopathic remedy for ADHD.

The
effects of this Adderall alternative on alertness and wakefulness
are particularly noteworthyin
regular bouts of sleep deprivation. Tyrosine can improvecognitive
function without interrupting normal sleeping patterns.Another
study successfully linked the supplementation ofL-Tyrosine
and 5-HTP to prominent reductions in ADHD relatedsymptoms
in children. However, L-Tyrosine is less effectivefor
ADHD and cognitive function in non-stressful situations.In
other words, it may be a good natural treatment for ADHD if you
are frequently stressed or experience irregularities in sleep
quality.

11. 5-HTP

5-HTP is the precursor to “feel good”
neurotransmitter, serotonin, and is a safe and effective natural
substitute for Adderall.

Much like prescription ADHD medications Adderall, Vyvanse, and
Ritalin, 5-HTP positively influences serotonin in the brain

which has an anti-depressant effect. When levels of serotonin
increase in the user, happiness and an improved sense of
well-being occur. Thus, supplementing 5-HTP rejuvenates
focus and concentration, improves
creativity, and boosts mental energy.

Some
users suggest taking L-Tryptophan as a natural remedyfor
ADHD instead of 5-HTP. L-Tryptophan is the precursorto
5-HTP. Since L-Tryptophan can also divert into proteinconstruction
or niacin, 5-HTP is the better choice for treatingADHD
symptoms.This
is because 5-HTP serves the singular purpose of beingconverted
into serotonin. As a legal over the counter alternativeto
Adderall, 5-HTP easily permeates the blood-brain
barrier.
5-HTP’s high bioavailability allows it to go to work on serotonin
production quickly and efficiently. Keep in mind that
tolerance
development may occur with 5-HTP, so always stick to the
recommended dosage. If you’d prefer a subtle, yet still
capable boost in serotonin with less risk, use L-Tryptophan
instead of 5-HTP.

Its
primary purpose is to help the brain maintain equilibrium. It
achieves this goal by reducing the excitability and erratic
over-firing of neurons,

specifically
by countering Glutamate receptors.

Studies
have shown that GABA levels are much lower in those suffering
from ADHD and insomnia. Unfortunately, GABA deficiencies can
havean
adverse compounding effect since sleeplessness canworsen
symptoms of ADHD. This discovery has opened thedoor
for using GABA supplements as a safe, natural
alternative for Adderall in adults and children.
When
taking GABA as a non-prescription remedy forADHD,
it can help moderate neural activity and increaselevels
of serotonin in the brain.Heightened
levels of serotonin can control mood swings andreduce
stress and anxiety. Supplementing GABA can alsodiminish
irritability,aggression and other behavioral problems
associated with ADHD like hyperactivity and impulse control.
Although the research is not definitive on the effectiveness
of
GABA as an Adderall substitute, studies suggest that it’s at
least
worth a try.

Final
Thoughts on Natural Adderall Alternatives for ADHD

Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ritalin are powerful CNS stimulants for
treating ADHD. These are notgenius pills or
smart drugs.
These prescription medications can be dangerous if abused.
Therefore, they are not the best options for long-term use,
especially given the new knowledge we have on safe and legal over
the counter replacements.
With a whole slew of natural Adderall alternatives and
substitutes to choose from, it’s worth kicking the amphetamines
to the curb in favor of a new ADHD remedy. What do you think is
the best Adderall alternative in 2018? Let us know about
your experience with these natural ADHD supplements in the
comments below.